Knowledge Is Now a Luxury Commodity

The popularity of TED and similar events was bound to spill over into other areas. High-end tourists no longer just want to be wined and dined. In many cases, they also want educational nourishment.

This could be anything from an art-house film to a talk on medieval history to a two-hour craft class. The possibilities are endless.

Hotels across the world are realizing that putting on cultural events and talks is a useful hook to attract high spenders.

For feedback or news tips, reach out via email at [email protected] or tweet me @paddywhyte.

— Patrick Whyte, Europe Editor

5 Looks at Luxury

Luxury Hotels Want to Make You Feel Culturally Relevant: Luxury is no longer defined by pristine interiors and personalized service, but limited knowledge-based access, distinct cultural experiences, and curated, specific references. Luxury hotels opening the doors to those experiences set themselves apart for future generations of affluent travelers.

Plush Matterhorn Glacier Ride Could Boost Swiss Tourism: A bejeweled new gondola is proving a draw for millennials in Switzerland. It also has a practical purpose: moving visitors to must-visit spots more efficiently.

Asian Airlines Turn to Super Business Suites Rather Than First Class: Malaysia Airlines was having trouble selling first class because its product couldn’t compete. It is now selling the cabin as a business suite product. It is priced cheaper than long-haul first, but has many of the same perks. Will it work? Might as well try.

The Megatrends Defining Travel in 2019: From the rise of undertourism to blurred lines in hospitality to travelers’ demands for control, these are the Megatrends in travel we’re watching in 2019.

Luxury Hotels Are Changing the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles From Seedy to Swanky: If there’s one constant in Los Angeles, it’s that everything always changes.

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